Slik Pro 700DX vs. Monfrotto 055XproB tripod

I thought I would come here for advice on a tripod. I have put off getting a tripod in hopes of getting one of decent quality and the time has come to get something. I am looking at both of these tripods as reasonably priced but still well-built.

The Slik seems like a great deal, but I am more familiar with the 055XproB and have tried it out and liked it. I am planning on using the tripod mostly for wildlife photography paired with a 400mm f/5.6 (future purchase). I also am interested in getting into Macro and landscape shooting.

One thing that I really like about the Monfrotto is the ability to remove the center column and then inverse it for macro applications. This seems like a cool feature and one that is lacking on the Slik (I think?).

Thoughts, opinions or suggestions on another model would be appreciated.

I think if money isn't an issue for you, then go with the Manfrotto. If you're tight on cash and want a sturdy tripod for little money, then go with the Slik.

Even though the Slik doesn't have the macro function, the center column can be broken down in 1/2 to shorten the minimum distance from the ground. Or, if you want, you can flip the entire center column upside down to get even lower to the ground.

k.lee wrote in post #8722092
I think if money isn't an issue for you, then go with the Manfrotto.

Why?

I have a slik pro 700 (about an 1 1/2 year old model) and I would get the manfrotto. The slik is one heavy tripod to pack around; believe me, I know. I have the pan tilt head and find it difficult to position in the portrait mode. Ha; I just noticed this is a year old thread.